Environmental Geochemistry and Ecotechnology

Welcome to Environmental Geochemistry and Ecotechnology at the Department of Land and Water Resources Engineering.

Our research is focused on the interactions between Man and Environment. We investigate chemical processes in soils, groundwaters and surface waters, both nationally and internationally. We also develop technology for the removal of nutrients and metals with filters, and we use our knowledge in chemical processes to improve environmental assessments of secondary materials and filters. Below are some examples of research areas that members of the group are involved in:

1.      Arsenic in groundwaters is a major problem in countries such as Bangladesh and Argentina. From where does all the arsenic come from?

2.      The risk for metal leaching from contaminated soils is linked to the soils’ own capacity to bind the metals. Can the metal binding capacity of soils be predicted using chemical equilibrium models?

3.   Households in rural areas often lack satisfying techniques for the removal of nutrients from wastewater. Is it possible to develop sustainable solutions for nutrient removal from these households that may both decrease eutrophication and increase recirculation of phosphorus?

4.   Recycled wastes such as combustion ashes and slags may be used as construction materials in for example roads. How can we use these valuable resources in a way that minimizes environmental impact through metal leaching etc.?

Members of the group are also involved in teaching at the KTH and at other universities as, e.g., SLU in Uppsala. Our visiting address is Brinellv. 28 and Teknikringen 76 at KTH, Stockholm.